Dissociative Identity Disorder, Friendship, and Christian Flourishing

Abstract

In contemporary disability theology, attention has been given to considerations of how disabled persons can be better included, or even find belonging, in Christian communities. I will contribute towards this endeavour by considering how the flourishing of those with Dissociative Identity Disorder—a psychiatric condition in which multiple personalities arise within the same body and mind—may be better facilitated in a Christian context. I will begin by providing an overview of Dissociative Identity Disorder and will then highlight the importance of relationships to accounts of Christian flourishing, drawing particularly on John Swinton’s account. Then, I will argue that we have good reason to think that friendship can help to facilitate the flourishing and wellbeing of those with DID, and I will point to ways that the church can help to promote this in a Christian context.